Neighbors protest Calif Hindu temple expansion

LIVERMORE, Calif. (AP) - A project that would triple the size of a popular Hindu cultural center in Northern California has residents in the area worried about crowds and noise. They want city officials to reconsider allowing the expansion.

Neighbors of the Hindu Community Cultural Center, which includes the Shiva-Vishnu Temple, in Livermore say the 18,300-foot facility already creates traffic, noise and garbage problems. They say want the temple to address those complaints before 31,000 square feet is added to the site.

Temple leaders say the expansion would help resolve current issues. They say a bigger hall would allow more indoor activities and the kitchen would be moved away from homes, reducing noise and odors.

Livermore City Council plan to hear an appeal on the expansion on May 10.